24th Annual A Dickens Holiday Event This Friday in Downtown Fayetteville

It's time to bust out the bonnets and don the derby hats! Downtown Fayetteville is set to host its 24th annual Christmas celebration, "A Dickens Holiday", on Friday, November 24.

Franklin Square, Maxwell Street, and Hay Street will soon become the epicenter of Victorian-era festivities for the event. This year's "A Dickens Holiday" promises more exhibits and activities than ever to create a fun and unique experience for guests of all ages. This is all in hopes of spreading holiday cheer for the Fayetteville community.

Attendees can expect a full immersive experience as the downtown area is packed with character actors in full era-accurate garb. Guests are also encouraged to come decked out in their best Dickensian fit as well. If you need help piecing an ensemble together, the event page has provided a handy clothing guide for men and women (seen here). Finally, a place for me to wear one of my capes without judgmental stares!

One of the most popular attractions coming this year is the Ghost of Christmas Past Exhibit. This is where guests can learn more about holiday celebrations and customs from the 19th and 20th century. This is also where people can also learn more about Fayetteville traditions for the holidays.

There's also fun to be had for the kiddos as well. "A Dickens Holiday" in Fayetteville will have plenty of fun kid-friendly activities and exhibits, including magic shows, Victorian Llamas, a photo op with Father Christmas, and so much more.

This wonderful holiday event is still in need of volunteers and performers. If you would like to help out in any way with "A Dickens Holiday", you can submit an application form here. Performer applications are also here for those with a knack for performing.

This is an incredible way to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, while also supporting your local community.

Most of us eagerly anticipate spending Christmas Day unwrapping gifts and enjoying time with family. But certain overlooked items always require a last-minute visit to a store. That's when knowing which spots are open becomes beneficial.

It might strike some as unusual that certain places opt to remain open on Christmas. However, not everyone observes the holiday. Some individuals may even prefer working during this time, anticipating more generous tips. The thing about Christmas is that ads and commercials usually depict it as the ultimate day of the year for everyone. Yet, for those who are missing loved ones or simply prefer to overlook Christmas entirely, it might not be the "most wonderful time of the year" for them. The places that choose to stay open on Christmas may have valid reasons for doing so.

Several restaurants and stores typically close early on Christmas Eve and remain closed on Christmas Day, but this doesn't apply universally. Some chains keep various locations open during the holiday season. If you're curious about your local spots, either make a call or check online to confirm their hours.

For those in the mood for a steak, options like Outback can cater to such preferences, while coffee enthusiasts can rely on chains like Starbucks and Dunkin' Donuts to stay caffeinated during the holiday rush. Some restaurants offer dining-in options with reservations, while others, such as Cracker Barrel and Boston Market, provide à la carte holiday menus to accommodate a range of preferences.

Whether your Christmas tradition involves a home-cooked meal, dining out at a favorite spot, or a quick store run for forgotten items, knowing the operating hours of nearby stores and restaurants on Christmas Day can be useful. To save time and prevent the inconvenience of visiting closed stores, we've compiled a list of some places open during this festive period. Additionally, for those not participating in Christmas celebrations or preferring takeout, there are dining alternatives available.

While many CVS stores operate 24/7, it's important to note that their hours are shorter on Christmas. Typically, running from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., CVS remains one of the few stores open on holidays to accommodate those needing to pick up medications.

Most Walgreens locations are open on Christmas Day, with some maintaining their usual 24/7 schedule. Meanwhile, others, which are not typically open around the clock, may have limited hours from 8 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. This is convenient for those requiring prescription fills or over-the-counter medications.

Denny’s has your back on Christmas Day, as their locations are open. Their Facebook post assures, "Denny’s is open 24/7, and that means Christmas too! Come on in and feel the cheer; we'll be waiting for you." However, some locations are corporate stores, and others are franchises, and not all franchises may honor these hours, so check in advance before making the trip.

If you're craving pancakes on Christmas Day, IHOP is an option. However, be sure to check your local IHOP's hours, as they can vary. Some locations operate 24 hours, most maintain regular hours from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Others may open with reduced holiday hours (around 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

Enjoy a holiday drink or grab last-minute gifts like coffee mugs at select Starbucks locations open on Christmas Day. Verify your local cafe's hours using the Starbucks app as a recommended way to find a store, check hours, and order ahead. "This holiday season, Starbucks store hours vary by location and stores may occasionally adjust their hours based on business and customer needs," said the coffee shop website.

Dunkin' locations will generally be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but you should check to confirm your local store's specific hours. Dunkin' spots within grocery stores and gas stations will follow the host store's schedule. For instance, if it’s a location within a Walmart that’s closed, that Dunkin’ store will be closed.

McDonald's typically stays open on Christmas, but it's best to check with your local franchise, as each operates independently. Given that 93% of McDonald's restaurants are run by independent owners, hours can vary. It's not a guarantee that your local branch will be open.

Craving a 10-piece nugget combo or a Baconator on Christmas? Wendy’s has you covered, as the fast-food chain is open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Check with your local store to confirm their hours. Wendy's suggests using their location finder, whether you plan to walk in, drive-thru, or opt for delivery.